When Ferrari introduced the new 365 GTB/4 at the Paris Auto Show in October 1968, it defied the expectations of the cognoscenti, who anticipated a new midengine model to counter Lamborghini’s sensational Miura. Instead, what they beheld they initially judged as a traditional front-engined V-12 Berlinetta directly evolved from the highly successful 275 GT, but in sum it proved to be a landmark Ferrari. Mechanically, its Colombo V-12 engine was a powerhouse: a 4-cam, dry sump, twin ignition, billet crank engineering masterpiece topped off by a row of six Weber twin-choke carburetors reminiscent of the racing Testarossa powerplants. The Pininfarina-styled coachwork was a masterful departure in both form and detail. Dubbed “Daytona” in commemoration of Ferrari’s historic 1-2-3 finish at the Florida endurance classic in 1967, the new car’s arresting combination of Pininfarina styling, tenacious roadholding and a top speed exceeding every other production car in the world not only put any concerns to rest, but established the Daytona as one of Ferrari’s all-time greatest sports GT cars. Part of a private collection since 1993, Chassis No. 14855 was built by Scaglietti in December 1971 as a U.S.-specification model and delivered new to Harrah’s Modern Classic Motors in Reno, Nevada. According to its warranty booklet, it was sold new by Ron Tonkin Gran Turismo in Portland, Oregon (now Ferrari’s oldest North American dealer), in 1974 to Raymond Stoutenburg of Manteo, North Carolina. Finished in classic Rosso Corsa paint with black leather, red carpets, factory air conditioning, electric window lifts and a Becker Europa AM/FM radio, 14855 retains its original (No. 14855) 4390cc Colombo V-12 engine mated to a rear-mounted 5-speed manual gearbox and presents with an odometer reading of 36,926 miles. Described contemporaneously as “the greatest blend of speed, handling and refinement,” this 1974 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 is an impressive offering, including the all-important tool roll, jack and lug wrench, leather owner’s pouch with warranty booklet, operating handbook, U.S. handbook supplement, parts catalog and consumer information, and maintenance invoices from Sport Auto LTD of Ridgefield, Connecticut, since 2000.
